English Dub Review: Saga of Tanya the Evil “Trial by Fire”

Do we get burned?

Saga of Tanya the Evil entry “Trial by Fire” advances Tanya Degurechaff’s (Monica Rial) story. Season one episode eight yields a new dynamic. Whereas Imperial forces, such as Tanya’s mage battalion, dominated with ease, the Republic’s forces pose a greater threat. As the episode name, “Trial by Fire,” suggests, this battle is not as easily won.

“Forecast for today’s afternoon warfare,” Tanya begins narrating. “Visibility is excellent so the chance of artillery showers followed by the screams of the dying is extremely high.” It’s a grim thought, though true. Tanya further comments that it’s going to be a slog until the Entente alliance finally surrenders.

Unfortunately, it’s not exactly the Entente that the Empire has to worry about. Degurechaff’s mage battalion moves in in the Entente. While fighting them, Republic mage battalions engage the Imperial troops. It’s neat seeing the war unfold on multiple fronts.

While I’ve enjoyed Saga of Tanya the Evil, Tanya’s Imperial mage battalion has easily won emerged victorious each time. However that changes as “Trial by Fire” progresses. Ultimately, and it should come as no surprise, Tanya’s mages win the upper hand. Like in the Dakia attack, they fire upon civilians. While Tanya and company appear pretty ruthless, this episode shows dissension.

Tanya isn’t quite thrilled about the prospect, though it’s her soldier Grantz that really objects. “We must completely eliminate Republic forces and sympathizers who refuse to surrender.” The rule to cease firing on non-combatants is suspended. Additionally, Imperial mages are given permission to destroy the land. It’s truly become a war of attrition.

Moreover, Weiss, a member of Tanya’s battalion, gets shot during battle. It’s rare that one of the mages has encountered an injury. Sure, he doesn’t die, but he is wounded. As Saga of Tanya the Evil continues I hope to see more episodes where the Empire appears outmatched. While easy victories no doubt remain fun, it’s fascinating and enthralling to see them struggle. There’s more at stake.

In a post-credits scene, Anson Sue (Jarrod Greene), formerly thought dead, returns. I’m thrilled to Anson isn’t dead, as he seems an excellent foil for Tanya, replete with power bestowed from Being X. Overall, “Trial by Fire” is a fantastic romp that turns the tables on Tanya, at least for a bit.